Austin, Texas, August 13, 2015 — The FieldComm Group today announced release of the first update to its newest tool deliverables, the FDI Package IDE and the FDI Common Host Components. Version 1.1 of the development tools introduce exciting new capabilities for FDI product developers including an automated device package test tool, support for PROFINET based device packages, and support for developing device packages capable of offline configuration, including upload and download features.

Since the dissolution of the FDI Cooperation July 28, 2015, both PROFIBUS and PROFINET International and FieldComm Group, as co-owners of the tools and components, have partnered together to support, maintain and enhance FDI products. Development of a single software product across all protocols will be performed at FieldComm Group in collaboration with PROFIBUS and PROFINET International through the Group’s working group model. FDI tools and host components are currently available for purchase from FieldComm Group across FOUNDATION Fieldbus, HART and PROFIBUS/PROFINET protocols.

FDI makes it easier for automation suppliers to develop and integrate intelligent devices because suppliers only need to create a single, unified package for each intelligent device that can work with all host systems and tools. This reduces overall development costs, while preserving and expanding existing functionality. Users will also find it easier to manage information from intelligent devices with a single device package, instead of managing multiple file types for disparate solutions and investing significant capital in custom integration efforts to connect multiple technology platforms.

FDI Package IDE 1.1 has been feature enhanced with the following improvements;

Device Package Test Tool

Enables automated testing of device packages

Support for PROFINET

Tool now supports HART, FOUNDATION Fieldbus, PROFIBUS and PROFINET

Offline Configuration Capability of Devices

Enables configuration of devices prior to connection to the system

Upload/download Features

Enables offline configuration to be downloaded/uploaded on the system

Bug Fixes

The FDI Device Package IDE is a tool for device developers to create FDI Packages and includes everything a host system needs to integrate the intelligent device into their system. With FDI, a single FDI Device Package makes it easier for device suppliers to develop and integrate their device across a wide range of host systems and protocols.

FDI Common Host Components 1.1 have been feature enhanced with the following improvements;

Offline Configuration Capability of Devices

Enables configuration of devices prior to connection to the system

Upload/download Features

Enables offline configuration to be downloaded/uploaded on the system

Bug Fixes

The FDI Common Host Components are software components for host system manufacturers that allows for rapid development and support of FDI device packages into their host systems. The components help system suppliers ensure they properly comply with the standard and consume device packages correctly. The FDI Common Host Components fully support both the new unified EDD file format as well as legacy EDD formats to protect end user investments.